How To Write A Letter Of Continued Interest (With Examples)
If you’ve been waitlisted or deferred by a college where you’ve applied, you might be wondering what you can do next. You’ve put time and effort into your college application, and now it feels like you’re stuck in limbo. The good news is that there’s a simple way to show the admissions committee that you’re still interested in attending—it’s called a letter of continued interest (often shortened to LOCI).
I know the name might sound a little formal, but don’t worry—writing this letter doesn’t have to be complicated. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to write a letter of continued interest, using helpful tips I found across several expert sources. Let’s get started.
Key Takeaways
A letter of continued interest allows you to express that you’re still serious about a college after being deferred or placed on a waitlist, and it’s best to send it within a couple of weeks after receiving the decision.
When writing this letter, start with a thank-you, clearly state the school is your top choice, and show that you would attend if admitted.
Share new updates or achievements that strengthen your application and briefly explain why the college still fits your academic or personal goals, using details that show you’ve done your homework.
Keep the tone warm and positive, avoid repeating your original college essay, and limit the letter to one page with 3–5 focused paragraphs that are easy to read.
Format your LOCI professionally with a clear salutation, intro, update section, and closing, then send it through the college’s preferred method—email, portal, or via a school counselor if needed.
What Is a Letter of Continued Interest?
A letter of continued interest lets the college know that, even though you’ve been deferred or waitlisted, you’re still serious about going there. It’s your chance to reaffirm your interest in the school, update the admissions office on any recent accomplishments, and remind them why you’re a great fit.
Think of it as a polite and positive nudge that says, “Hey, I’m still interested in attending! Here’s what I’ve been up to—and this college remains my top choice.”
This kind of letter is especially common in the college admissions process in the United States, and some schools even expect one. So if you get off the waitlist or have a chance after a deferral, this small step can make a big difference.
What does deferred mean?
When you’re deferred, it means the college reviewed your application—usually through Early Action or Early Decision—but decided to wait before making a final decision. Instead of rejecting or accepting you, they move your application into the Regular Decision pool to take another look later with the rest of the applicants. You still have a chance of getting in, but you’ll need to wait a bit longer for an answer.
What does waitlisted mean?
Being waitlisted means the college liked your application but didn’t have enough space to admit you right away. You’re placed on a list of students who could be admitted later if spots open up. It’s not a no, but it’s not a yes either. If other admitted students choose to go elsewhere, the college might offer you a place from the waitlist.
When Should You Send Your LOCI?
Most experts recommend writing your LOCI shortly after you’ve been notified that you’re waitlisted or deferred. Ideally, send your letter within a couple of weeks. That shows the admissions team that you’re paying attention and genuinely care.
Check if the college allows or encourages LOCIs—some will mention it in their waitlist letter. Others may prefer you send updates through an online portal or ask your school counselor to submit it on your behalf.
If you’re not sure, you can always email the admissions office and ask. Just be polite and direct.
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How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest: Components of the Letter
Here’s a breakdown of what your LOCI should look like:
1. Start with Gratitude
Begin your letter by thanking the admissions officer or admissions committee for reviewing your application and giving you a chance to remain in the running. Even though you were waitlisted or deferred, showing appreciation sets a respectful tone.
Example: “Thank you for taking the time to review my application and for placing me on the waitlist. I’m grateful for the opportunity to express my continued interest in attending.”
2. Reaffirm That the School Is Your Top Choice
Make it clear that this college is where you want to be. Admissions folks want to admit students who will actually show up—this shows them you mean it.
Example: “This college remains my number one choice, and I would attend if admitted.”
This statement can really help, especially if the college tracks demonstrated interest.
3. Share New Information or Achievements
Have you won an award? Improved your test scores? Taken on a leadership role in Model United Nations or a computer science club? Mention it here. This shows growth since your initial application and gives more evidence that you’re ready for college.
You might say: “Since submitting my application, I’ve completed a science research project focused on data analysis in environmental studies. I also led our school’s UN team at a conference in New York City.”
Make it short, but include anything that adds value.
To effectively present your accomplishments, consider creating a brag sheet. This tool can help you organize and highlight your achievements, making it easier to communicate them in your letter. Learn how to craft one with our guide on writing a brag sheet.
4. Explain Why You’re Still Interested
This is your chance to show you’ve done your research. Mention something specific about the school—maybe a professor whose reading list inspired you, a campus group you’d like to join, or how their computer science program aligns with your goals.
Example: “I’m especially excited about the chance to work with the Robotics Lab, which perfectly connects with my long-term interests in science and engineering.”
This helps show the college why you’re a good match, not just that you want to get in anywhere.
Reflecting on your personal experiences and values can help articulate why a particular college aligns with your goals. Our college essay brainstorming exercises can guide you in uncovering these insights.
5. Keep the Tone Sincere and the Letter Short
Every source I looked at emphasized the same thing: don’t overdo it. A LOCI isn’t another college essay. It’s more like a friendly update—ideally, no more than one page. Be clear, honest, and keep it focused.
How to Format and Send Your Letter
When it comes to how to write a letter of continued interest, the format is just as important as the content. You want it to be clear, respectful, and easy to read. Let’s go over the basic structure step by step, using simple language and examples to help you feel confident.
1. Salutation
Start your letter with a polite greeting. If you know the name of the admissions officer handling your application, use it. For example:“Dear Ms. Johnson,”If you don’t know who to address, a safe option is:“Dear Admissions Committee,”
This shows professionalism and respect, whether you’re applying to Yale University, a small liberal arts college, or university, or anywhere else in the college admissions process in the United States process.
Maintaining a professional tone is crucial in your letter. For tips on structuring your essay effectively, refer to our guide on writing a 500-word essay, which offers valuable insights into organizing your thoughts concisely
2. Intro Paragraph
Right away, express gratitude for the opportunity to still be considered. Even if you’ve been placed on the waitlist or are a deferred applicant, thank them for reviewing your application.
Then, clearly reiterate that the school remains your top choice and that you’d attend if admitted. This part of your letter helps show your strong interest and reminds them you’re still committed.
Example: “Thank you for reviewing my application and for placing me on the wait list. I’m grateful for the opportunity to reaffirm that [College Name] remains my top choice, and I would gladly attend if admitted.”
3. Middle Paragraph
Here’s where you talk about any updates to your application. This could be a new achievement, an improved grade, a new leadership role in an extracurricular activity, or a personal project you’ve taken on—maybe even something you learned in a Model United Nations conference in New York City. Keep it specific and relevant.
Also, take a moment to show how your goals and interests match what the school offers. If you visited the school, participated in an event, or spoke with a student or professor, mention it. That’s a great way to express your continued interest and let them know you’ve done your research.
Example: “Since my initial application, I’ve been elected president of my school’s science club and completed a research paper on data privacy laws in the U.S. I also attended a campus tour in New York City and left even more excited about the chance to be part of your learning community.”
4. Closing Paragraph
Wrap things up by repeating that the college is your dream school and remains your top choice. Keep it warm, respectful, and to the point.
Example: “Thank you again for considering my application. I would be honored to join [College Name] and contribute to your campus community.”
5. Signature and Submission
At the end, type your full name and include your application ID or student number, if you have one. This helps the organization quickly match your letter with your original application.
Save your letter as a PDF so the formatting stays neat. Then, send it by email or through the school’s portal, depending on what they prefer. If you’re not sure how to send it, you can read the waitlist letter again or check the admissions website. Don’t be afraid to reach out to the admissions office for guidance.
For guidance on tone, structure, and etiquette when communicating with admissions offices, check out our tips on How to Write a Professional Email.
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A Few Final Tips for Writing LOCI
Keep the letter short. One page is enough. Just three clear paragraphs can do the job.
Don’t repeat your college essay. This isn’t the place to copy and paste your old writing. Share updates and express why you’re still interested in attending.
Stay positive. Avoid sounding upset or discouraged about being placed on their waitlist or deferred. It happens to many strong applicants—it’s not the end.
Don’t attach extras unless asked. Avoid sending new essays or recommendation letters unless the school specifically asks for an additional letter or update.
Talk to your school counselor. They’ve helped deferred students and waitlisted students before and can give feedback before you send your LOCI.
Still building your college list? Learn how to find the right balance in your applications with our guide on How Many Colleges Should You Apply To.
How to Write a Letter of Continued Interest: Examples
Here are three examples of Letters of Continued Interest you can use for inspiration. Each one is tailored for a slightly different student situation: one who was deferred, one who was waitlisted, and one with a major update (like a new award or improved test scores). They all follow a clear and friendly structure and use plain language.
Example 1: Deferred Student (Early Action to Yale University)
Subject: Continued Interest – Maya Thompson, Application ID: YA20251234
Dear Yale Admissions Committee,
Thank you for reviewing my Early Action application and for deferring me to the Regular Decision round. I remain deeply interested in Yale University, and I’m writing to express that if admitted, I would absolutely attend.
Since submitting my application in November 2024, I’ve taken on new responsibilities and accomplishments. I was recently elected president of my high school’s Model United Nations team, and in February 2025, I led our delegation to a Best Delegation award at the Columbia University Model UN Conference in New York City. I’ve also maintained a 4.0 GPA in my senior year and started mentoring younger students in our school’s science club.
Yale’s focus on interdisciplinary learning, its vibrant campus community, and its global outlook make it my number one choice. I’d be honored to contribute to Yale’s mission and grow within its learning environment.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Warmly,Maya ThompsonApplication ID: YA20251234Brooklyn Tech High School, Brooklyn, NY
Example 2: Waitlisted Student with Updated Test Scores (Stanford University)
Subject: Continued Interest – Jordan Lee, Application ID: ST20251178
Dear Stanford Admissions Committee,
Thank you for placing me on the waitlist for the Class of 2029. I’m writing to reaffirm that Stanford University remains my top choice, and I would enthusiastically attend if admitted.
Since I submitted my application, I’ve continued to grow both academically and personally. In January 2025, I retook the SAT and raised my score from a 1380 to a 1480. I’ve also been named co-captain of the robotics team at Whitney M. Young Magnet High School in Chicago. Our team recently qualified for the Illinois State Championships in March 2025, where we placed 2nd out of 65 schools.
Stanford’s commitment to innovation, especially in computer science and data science, aligns perfectly with my academic goals and interests. I would be thrilled to become part of such a forward-thinking and collaborative campus.
Thank you for considering my continued interest.
Sincerely,Jordan LeeApplication ID: ST20251178Whitney M. Young Magnet High School, Chicago, IL
Example 3: Waitlisted Student Emphasizing Fit and Enthusiasm (University of Michigan)
Subject: Continued Interest – Olivia Ramirez, Application ID: UM20251392
Dear University of Michigan Admissions Committee,
Thank you for reviewing my application and placing me on the wait list. I appreciate the chance to still be considered, and I want to express my strong and sincere interest in the University of Michigan. If admitted, I would be proud to accept the offer and attend.
Since submitting my application, I’ve stayed focused on my academic and extracurricular goals. In March 2025, I was selected as the lead coordinator for our school’s annual Culture Night at Lincoln High School in San Diego. The event brought together over 300 students and their families, and I’m proud to have led a team of 25 organizers from different backgrounds. I also started an independent project analyzing gender representation in political speeches using data from the United Nations archives.
Michigan has been my dream school for years, especially because of its emphasis on global learning, interdisciplinary research, and community impact. I’d love the opportunity to be part of such an inspiring environment.
Thank you again for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,Olivia RamirezApplication ID: UM20251392Lincoln High School, San Diego, CA
Final Thoughts
Writing a letter of continued interest might feel intimidating at first, but it’s really just about showing the college you care and sharing a few meaningful updates. If you’ve been waitlisted or deferred, this letter gives you one more chance to stand out and remind the admissions office why you’d be a great addition to their community. Keep it honest, stay positive, and let your sincere interest shine through. You’ve got this.
If you’re seeking further guidance on composing your letter, our college essay writing tips provide additional strategies to enhance your writing and effectively convey your enthusiasm
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How To Write A Letter Of Continued Interest FAQs
What Are Your Chances of Admission If You’re Deferred or Waitlisted?
It depends on the college and the year, but acceptance rates for deferred or waitlisted students are generally low. That said, writing this letter can help boost your chances, especially if it shows strong interest and meaningful updates.
What can you do if you’re deferred or waitlisted?
Start by sending a thoughtful letter of continued interest. This letter to the admissions team lets them know you’re still interested in attending and gives you a chance to highlight any new achievements or updates since your application.
What Do Colleges Want to Know About Students Who Have Been Waitlisted or Deferred?
They want to see that you remain committed, that you’ve continued growing, and that you would attend if admitted. A letter of continued interest allows you to reaffirm that this is your top choice and that you’re a great fit to be part of their community.
How can I increase my chances of getting off the waitlist?
Write your letter as clearly and sincerely as possible, using the word count wisely to express gratitude, update the admissions office, and show you’re still interested in attending. You can also talk to your school counselor and make sure you follow any specific instructions from the waitlist school.
How many pages should a letter of continued interest be?
Keep the letter to one page—short, focused, and clear. Every college prefers something concise, so about 3–5 paragraphs (roughly 300–400 words) is ideal when learning how to write a letter of continued interest with examples that stand apart from the rest.
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